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Alpha GPC: The Memory and Focus Enhancing Nootropic

10 March, 2014

Alpha GPC, short for L-Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine, is a popular nootropic for enhancing memory and cognition, which is why we chose it for the Focus+ formula. In Europe, this nootropic is even prescribed medically for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease for its benefits on memory and learning. Found in milk and produced in the brain, Alpha GPC is a natural compound of choline – an essential nutrient that our bodies require in order to develop and function properly. This cognitive enhancer works by rapidly delivering choline to the brain across the blood-brain barrier, thereby increasing levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain, providing it’s cognitive benefits.

What’s Choline?

Choline is a chemical precursor of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter in humans and many other organisms. It is important to maintain healthy levels of choline intake for reasons far beyond supporting memory and thinking. Choline deficiency has been linked with liver disease and neurological disorders. Choline supplementation can therefore serve a wide range of non-cognitive uses, including the treatment of liver disorders, atherosclerosis, alcoholism and even hepatitis and glaucoma! It is estimated that less than ten percent of American men, women and children ingest enough choline, with pregnant women commonly lacking the most, so supplementing choline can be is something everyone should consider!

Types of Choline

There are a number of different types of choline, and Alpha GPC is just one of them. Compared to other sources of choline, Alpha GPC has a much greater ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver its benefits. Choline Bitartrate is another popular choline supplement. It is one of the least expensive forms, but can also be the least pure form sometimes. Lecithin, which you may be familiar with, is derived from soy and delivers choline to the brain in the form of phosphatidylcholine. Choline CDP, also known as Citicoline, is another popular form of choline, particularly popular for the added mood-enhancing benefits reported by many users. It also has a very high bio-availability. Read more about the different types of Choline supplements here.

The cognitive effects of Alpha GPC and other choline sources are caused by the conversion of choline into acetylcholine. Acetylcholine a neurotransmitter that is found in the central nervous system as well as the peripheral nervous system. Based on research findings, acetylcholine is thought to be involved in mood, memory and intelligence, which explains the cognitive effects provided by Alpha GPC and other choline supplements. Try out some Alpha GPC for a boost in memory, motivation and mood!